August 9, 2020


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Afternoon Bible Verse
"But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay: for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil."
Matthew 5:37 (KJV)



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Afternoon Bible Study
Why is it so difficult for us to answer each other with a simple "yes" or "no"? Jesus addresses the tendency to try to communicate more in how we respond to others.

In Jesus's day, the Jews had the practice of making promises based on objects, not on the name of God. This was their way out in case they broke an oath to another person. They felt like as long as they didn't promise in God's name, they wouldn't be judged. However, Jesus was displeased with this practice.

God wants us to keep our word because we represent Him. God has kept every promise He has ever made throughout time. When we break our promises to each other, we are not representing who Christ is in our words and actions.



God cares about our promises and whether or not we live a life of integrity. When we do what we say we will do, people learn to depend on us. It is better to say we can't do something than to go back on our word.

Before we respond to something that is asked of us, we should take some time to really consider the request. It's important to be realistic in the commitments we make, knowing that saying "no" is honoring the person enough that we are honest and are not making promises we can't keep.

We are walking testimonies of the faithfulness of God, whether we say a word or not. Let's always say "yes" to Him and not be afraid to say no to others.
Afternoon Prayer
God, sometimes I feel pulled in so many directions. My family, friends, and coworkers have expectations of me that sometimes I can't fulfill. Give me the strength to say "no" even when it might mean disappointing someone I love. Help me be honest in how I respond to others. I want to honor you in how I demonstrate love. In Jesus's name, amen.

Yesterday Afternoon
August 8, 2020
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Yesterday Afternoon's Bible Verse
"This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success."
Joshua 1:8 (KJV)



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Yesterday Afternoon's Bible Study
"A regular morning routine can be helpful in living a productive life. Everyone has some kind of routine, even if it only includes getting out of bed, eating breakfast, and brushing one's teeth.

As followers of Jesus, we can choose to start the day by thanking God for how He has blessed us. We can also incorporate faith practices (such as short prayers) into our daily routine that help us in our walk with God. There are countless ways to build our days around the Lord.

Joshua 1:8, this afternoon's verse, speaks of meditating on the Word day and night so we can be sure to do what God wants us to do. The benefit? We will be prosperous and successful."



It's difficult to follow God's Word if we don't know what it says. Meditating on Scripture is equivalent to soaking or marinating in the Word. We read it, think about it, pray and ask God for revelation, dwell on it, and talk about it. It stays in our minds and on our hearts.

We should commit to studying the Bible in this new year and ask God to help it take root in our hearts. We can only imagine how intentionally dwelling on His Word could enrich and benefit our lives.
Yesterday Afternoon's Prayer
God, I am so thankful for the Bible. I'm grateful for those who were obedient in the process of writing your words and hearing your voice. Often, I take for granted what it means to study your Word freely. It's a privilege. Help me to be faithful in studying and meditating on the Scripture. In Jesus's name, amen.

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